City of Kenmore encourages residents to prepare for heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall is in the forecast through tomorrow. When large amounts of rain fall, it can overwhelm the drainage system and cause flooding. The City of Kenmore encourages residents to prepare for the fall storm season.

City employees clear storm drains, but it's hard to get to all public drains. Residents can help minimize and possibly prevent flooding with the following tips:

• Check storm drain grates frequently to make sure they are free of leaves and debris.

• Do not remove the grate from the storm drain opening- this does not unclog the system and creates a hazard for everyone

• Rake leaves away from storm drains near your house or business. Please do not rake or blow leaves from your property into the street. Our street sweeper cannot pick up large piles of leaves.

• Dispose of leaves in your yard waste container or compost bin.

• Have pre-made sandbags available in case of an unexpected urban flood

Sandbag DepotsConsider using sand and sandbags to prevent flood damage. The City has deployed sandbags at five designated locations for use during the flood season. Please notify the City prior to taking sandbags by calling 425-398-8900. This will allow the City to track the number of sandbags used and to refill the locations. Make sure to know how to properly place the sandbags.

Locations:

Near Kenmore Elementary, NE 192nd Street and 73rd Ave NE

Old Kenmore Park and Ride, 18201 68th Ave NE

Rhododendron Park, 6910 NE 170th Street

Log Boom Park, 60th Ave NE and NE 175th Street

Arrowhead Drive; 67th Ave NE and NE 155th Street

Downed Power Lines – Stay Clear, Stay Safe

Heavy rainfall can cause trees to fall and possible power outages. As a reminder, if you come across a downed power line, stay as far away from it as you can and call Puget Sound Energy at 1-888-225-5773. Assume it is live. Never touch a downed power line or anything near it. In addition, do not drive over downed power lines. Should a power line fall on your car when you’re driving, stay in the car until help arrives. If a person or pet comes in contact with a power line, stay clear and call 911 immediately. Do not touch the victim or the wire.

• Do not attempt to drive through standing water as your vehicle may stall.

• Watch for “Street Closed” signs. They are placed by crews for your safety.

• Listen to your radio or television for storm forecasts and other information.

• If you are caught in your building by rapidly rising waters, call 911 for help. Then move to a higher floor or to the roof. Take warm, weatherproof clothing, a flashlight, a cell phone, and a portable radio.

• Check on your disaster preparedness kit to ensure it contains food, light sticks, water, flashlights, a battery-powered radio and a wind-up clock.

• Be a good neighbor. Find out if your neighbor needs any assistance with clearing storm drains or with any additional tasks.

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